In his first studio recording in over four years, Matt Redman returns with his passionate voice and unsurpassed ability for writing great worship songs to release Beautiful News. The author of classics such as "Better is One Day," "Let Everything That Has Breath," and "The Heart of Worship," just to name a few, Redman is a masterful worship leader and seems to capture the hearts of the audience at his concerts. His unique ability is why Facedown was such a successful live album, and why Redman chose to record his "best of" album in front of a crowd of believers.

But Redman's strength can also be a weakness. In many songs on Beautiful News, he still sings as if he were leading live worship. He tries to give others more of a studio feel, but they often come off as cliché, something Matt has usually been able to avoid in the past. In fact, these two types of songs are segregated almost entirely; songs at the beginning and end of the album, while enjoyable, sound like they should be played live, and those in the middle feel overproduced and unoriginal. The listener is left feeling like he was just cheated at the fast food counter, with only a sesame seed bun in hand-a good start and finish, but no meat in between.

Even at its weakest point, though, Beautiful News is still sincere worship to our Heavenly Father, and Redman sings with passion throughout. There are plenty of strong points as well. "Beautiful News" is an energetic first track featuring some great electric guitar. "Shine," which follows a solid studio version of the live hit "You Never Let Go," sounds like a soon-to-be worship classic with lyrics like, "We will shine like stars in the universe / holding out Your truth in the darkest place / we'll be living for Your glory." "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made" is another highlight, boldly proclaiming Christ as the Creator of all things. "When All is Said and Done," and "If You Know You're Loved" are incredible, simple songs of praise.

In the end, Beautiful News is by all means an above average modern worship project, but many will be left feeling unsatisfied given Matt Redman's stellar reputation. Some songs can easily be missed, while several others would be a joy to experience live, where Redman is at his very best.

- Review date: 12/22/06, written by Spencer Priest of Jesusfreakhideout.com